The spine is an area of the body that is particularly prone to developing pinched nerves, also known as nerve compression. Over time, displaced or damaged spinal anatomy can cause narrowing in the already tight nerve pathways in the spine, which can constrict the spinal cord or exiting nerve roots.

In a large number of cases, patients dealing with symptoms of this condition are able to find relief without resorting to pinched nerve surgery. But for other patients, it can start to look like the best option for lasting relief if pain is severe. The decision to undergo spine surgery is highly important and should be made on as informed a basis as possible. A great way to get the information you need is to ask your doctor or prospective surgeon questions about spine surgery in general and the procedure being recommended in particular.

Ask these questions before consenting to pinched nerve surgery

Here are just three examples of questions to ask to help you decide if pinched nerve surgery is right for you:

Have conservative treatments been fully exhausted? Ask if there are any nonsurgical therapies that could still be attempted for your condition. Some patients choose to attempt alternative therapies such as acupuncture before seriously considering surgery.

Are you experienced performing this procedure for my specific condition? Make sure your surgeon specializes in treating spine conditions that cause nerve compression, especially the specific issue you have been diagnosed with. A surgeon who has more experience treating hips and knees may not be your best option for a herniated disc in the spine, for example.

What is the recovery period like for this procedure? Next to choosing a procedure that will deliver long-term pain relief, patients are also typically concerned about procedures that can offer the easiest possible recovery period. You should make sure you are getting a realistic picture of how long you can expect to recover before being able to return to regular activities or work.

Minimally invasive pinched nerve surgery

As you explore your surgical options, we encourage you to contact our caring and dedicated team at Laser Spine Institute. We are the leaders in minimally invasive outpatient spine surgery and our highly skilled surgeons specialize in treating spinal nerve compression. By using muscle-sparing techniques, our procedures offer patients a shorter recovery time and less risk of complication compared to traditional open neck or back surgery.^

When you speak with us, ask for your free MRI review* to help you find out if you are a potential candidate for one of our procedures.

*Our MRI review is an informational review of the MRI report that you provide to us and is not a form of diagnosis. A diagnosis and a final determination of whether you may benefit from treatment at Laser Spine Institute can only be made after you have been physically examined by our medical professionals at Laser Spine Institute. The MRI review has no value and will not be billed.